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Golden Globes Unveils Top 25 Contenders for First Best Podcast Award

Luminate’s data-led list defines eligibility and has raised questions about methodology and ownership links.

Overview

  • The Globes released a Luminate-curated list of 25 eligible podcasts for the new Best Podcast category debuting at the 2026 ceremony.
  • Eligible titles span mainstream hits across news, politics and entertainment, including The Joe Rogan Experience, Call Her Daddy, SmartLess, Pod Save America and The Daily.
  • Luminate determined the Top 25 using direct platform data from services such as Apple, Spotify and YouTube, weighing reach, engagement, revenue and chart performance.
  • The 25 shows are invited to submit for consideration, with Globes voters set to choose six nominees to be announced December 8.
  • Industry voices questioned potential conflicts because Luminate has corporate ties to Penske, which co-owns the Globes, while notable podcasts like the Kelce brothers’ New Heights were not included.